The Marine Science Academy at Brien McMahon High School will launch during the 2019-2020 school year. The new pathway will provide students with access to techniques and technology that are current and relevant in the diverse Marine Science field. Incoming 9th graders from across the district can apply online now through March 15.

Through partnerships with local and regional industries in the field, students will gain hands on field experiences, internships and apprenticeships. Concurrently with STEM courses, students will follow a 4-course sequence of Marine Studies.

“Connecticut and Norwalk specifically have a rich maritime history but just as important, a wealth of career opportunities available for those prepared,” said Science Department Chairperson at Brien McMahon Thomas Seuch. “It is our goal to ensure that through our instructional practices, field experiences, internships and apprenticeships, we provide highly qualified high school graduates to enter the workforce and or post-secondary education.”

In addition to the core-required classes at BMHS, students will enroll and successfully complete courses that engage them in an Introduction to Marine Science, Introduction to Oceanography and Marine Biology, Marine Engineering-Operations, Environmental Sustainability, DEEP safe boating course, Navigation, and Seamanship.

Students in the Marine Science Academy program will be enrolled in the TeMPEST afterschool program at the Norwalk Maritime Aquarium. TeMPEST provides unique hands-on experiences in science and technology, plus opportunities for students to interact with Aquarium animals and staff.

Students will work in collaboration with but not limited to: BMHS staff, NJROTC, The Maritime Aquarium, local marine-based industries.

The Norwalk Public Schools mission is to ensure that all students will be college and career ready by creating a student- centered learning environment in a collaborative culture. This includes ensuring that opportunities to explore career pathways are integrated throughout the curriculum with a particular focus on hands-on learning in real-world settings.